New Plasma Engine Uses Thin Air to Fuel Satellites

Topic: Space

A scientist named Francesco Romano has created a new engine that uses thin air as fuel. This engine can keep satellites in low Earth orbit indefinitely without needing expensive gases like xenon.

Choosing an orbit for a satellite is not easy. Very low Earth orbit (VLEO) has its advantages, but it also has a problem. Air friction makes satellites lose speed and need constant engine use to stay aloft. This requires fuel, which can be expensive.

Francesco Romano, a scientist at the University of Stuttgart, wanted to solve this problem. He used air molecules that cause friction as fuel for a plasma engine. This is called atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP). ABEP systems scoop up thin air and channel it into an electric engine, which turns the molecules into plasma and shoots them out the back, producing thrust.

But there are technical problems to work around. One problem is atomic oxygen (AO), a single-atom form of oxygen that's aggressive and corrosive. AO can damage metal electrodes and cathodes used in standard engines. Another problem is the variability of the atmosphere itself, which changes based on day-night cycle, latitude, and solar activity.

Why It Matters

This new engine could help reduce costs for satellite launches and make space exploration more affordable. It's also a step towards more sustainable space travel.

Key Facts

• Francesco Romano created a new plasma engine that uses thin air as fuel at the University of Stuttgart.
• The engine is called atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP) and can keep satellites in low Earth orbit indefinitely without needing expensive gases like xenon.
• Romano's engine has a contactless, neutralizer-less radio-frequency (RF) helicon plasma thruster and an optimized atmospheric intake system.
• The intake system collects 94.3% of air particles and remains efficient even when tilted by up to 15°.
• The engine is highly efficient, with 99% of delivered electrical power entering the thruster.

Key Terms

Plasma

A gas-like state of matter where atoms or molecules are ionized and can conduct electricity.

Atomic Oxygen (AO)

A single-atom form of oxygen that's aggressive and corrosive.

Implications

This new engine could help reduce costs for satellite launches and make space exploration more affordable. It's also a step towards more sustainable space travel.